Council monitoring Flying Fox roosts in Dalby and Jandowae

Council have begun to monitor an increase in Flying Foxes roosting along Myall Creek, Dalby.

Over the past week, Western Downs Regional Council have begun to monitor an increase in the number of Flying Foxes in the region, with a large number of Little Red Flying Foxes and Black Flying Foxes roosting near Edward Street Weir in Dalby.

As of Monday 21 March, Council Officers estimated there are approximately 13,500 Little Red Flying Foxes and 400 Black Flying Foxes roosting along Myall Creek, Dalby;

Despite the increase in the Flying Fox population in Dalby, this is not an unusual activity for Flying Fox colonies at this time of year due to the flowering of Eucalypt trees in the area;

Council have notified the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection of the roosts in Dalby and Jandowae.

Western Downs Regional Council General Manager for Community and Liveability Jodie Taylor said Council are continuing to monitor both roosts and at this stage there are no plans to commence dispersal activities.

“It’s not unusual for Dalby to experience a rise in the Flying Fox population towards the end of the summer months with short term events happening in March for the past three years,” she said.

“The increase in Flying Fox numbers over the past week is most likely in response to the flowering of Eucalypt trees occurring along the Condamine River and on the Basalt Ridges between Bell and Jimbour.

“Previously the Little Red Flying Foxes have moved on after a month, and the advice we have received predicts that the same will happen this year. With the Flying Foxes expected to move on by themselves, we ask our residents to be patient with them until they do.

“If anyone finds a sick or injured flying fox, please contact Council on 1300 COUNCIL and we’ll arrange for a wildlife carer to assist with the matter.”